Troubleshooting Brake Controller Brake Pedal Function On 2007 Classic Silverado 2500HD

Question:

Hello Ive got a brake controller that works when I manually squeeze it but doesnt activate the trailer brakes when I push the pedal. Ive read on your site that I need to have a wire connected to a terminal on the fuse box. Ive looked and it seems to be connected and the fuse is in the fuse box. Ive removed the fuse and the brake controller stops working so it seems to be correct. Ive tested the inside of the plug to the controller and there is no signal where the red wire connects to the brake controller. Is there a fuse that I could be missing that is burnt out or is there something else that needs to be connected? Should I just cut the red wire and connect it to a wire from the brake pedal? Thanks for your help.

asked by: Jake

Expert Reply:

The red wire should not have any power when the brake pedal is not being hit when checked with a circuit tester like # PTW2993. It should be connected to the cold side of the brake light switch so it should only send power when you hit the brake pedal. If there is still no power when you hit the brake pedal, then double check to make sure the brake light switch is working behind the connection point. Do not connect to the constant hot side of the switch or it will make the controller activate your trailer brakes continually.

I've attached a couple articles to help further. Another common issue is having the CHMSL/stoplight fuse go bad on Chevy trucks, so I recommend checking that fuse first as it can cause break controller issues from the signal not making it to the controller.

expert reply by: Jason S